I don't feel like a good mom, reveals struggling Serena Williams

The 36-year-old tennis star gave birth to her first child, Alexis Olympia, in September. Picture: AP

London - Faced with worries about breastfeeding, sleep and establishing a healthy balance between work and parenthood, some new moms struggle during the first months of their baby’s life,

So spare a thought for Serena Williams, who has put the worst loss of her 20-year tennis career down to post-natal emotions.

The seven-time Wimbledon champion admitted she wasn’t around as much as she’d like for her 11-month-old daughter because of her demanding training regime.

The 36-year-old tennis star gave birth to her first child, Alexis Olympia, in September. But in a post on her Instagram page, she admitted she didn’t feel like a good mother after fearing she was not doing enough for her daughter.

She told her nine million followers: "Last week was not easy for me. Mostly, I felt like I was not a good mom. I read several articles that said postpartum emotions can last up to three years if not dealt with.

She added: "I work a lot, I train, and I’m trying to be the best athlete I can be. However, that means although I have been with her every day of her life, I’m not around as much as I would like to be."

In a heart-warming message to other mothers, she added: "If you are having a rough day or week – it’s OK – I am, too."